Mourinho matched as Newcastle make serious move for £18m defender
Newcastle have matched Tottenham in their advances over a possible deal for Monaco defender Guillermo Maripan, according to a report.
Speculation earlier this year claimed that Spurs are keen on the Chilean central defender. Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho is after a new defender following the departure of Jan Vertonghen.
Indeed, Maripan later confirmed that he is keen to move to the Premier League after moving to Europe in 2017.
However, the latest report from CDF claims that Newcastle are now firmly in the hunt for the centre-back.
The Magpies have “equalled” Mourinho’s advances and are keen to beat their top-flight rivals to Maripan’s signature.
Although, Monaco have firmly insisted that the defender will not leave for less than €20million (£18milion).
Regardless of the French club’s financial hopes, the report adds that Monaco are keen to sell and it is likely Maripan will not be at the club next for much longer.
Monaco have a sizeable squad and are in the midst of a “serious economic crisis”, the report says.
Maripan said of his future earlier this year: “I want to sign with the right club. It could be Spurs, or another club.
“I really want to continue at top level for a few more years and I would like to play European football next season.
“Since January, a number of clubs have come forward with serious proposals. The Spanish and Italian leagues are the most obvious for the time being, but I will keep all options open.”
Maripan is not the only Monaco player to be a target for a Premier League club. Manchester United are allegedly keen on left-back Benoit Badiashile.
Indeed, the Red Devils have reportedly seen an opening bid of €25million (£22milion) rejected.
NEWCASTLE SHOW INTEREST IN SMALLING?
Meanwhile, further reports claim Newcastle have shown interest in signing United defender Chris Smalling.
The 30-year-old has arrived back at Old Trafford after his successful loan spell at Roma.
However, with his long-term future under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer unclear, interest has also reportedly arrived from elsewhere in the Premier League.
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